SCUP/AIA-CAE Excellence in Architecture Renovation or Adaptive Reuse, Merit Award

The University of Chicago Law Library at The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL and OWP/P, Chicago, IL

 
Photo by Hedrich Blessing
 

  
Photos by Hedrich Blessing

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The University of Chicago Law Library, designed in 1958 by Eero Saarinen did not meet 21st century requirements for accessibility, systems, energy efficiency, programmatic changes and teaching methods. The challenge was to upgrade the library and keep the spirit and structural assets intact. 

The goal of the rehabilitation was to respect Saarinen’s design, yet enhance the facility’s ability to engage students and faculty in interactive spaces to foster knowledge sharing. The desired result was a collaborative, more humane environment conducive to the technologies and methodologies of 21st century learning.

Options for demolition and new construction were considered, but the final consensus was to reuse the existing building and save cost and materials, accommodate new uses and technologies, and reaffirm its architectural history. The new layout provides more gathering areas and study spaces and generous access to daylight among the stacks. 

This multiple story renovation required sequencing phases with minimal interruption to students, faculty and staff. Construction was strictly planned around class schedules, exams and study periods and posed a unique difficulty because the building is poured concrete with no ceiling plenums. The team encountered many electrical, mechanical, and ADA challenges using Saarinen’s demanding material palette of concrete, limestone and glass. Modern data, power and lighting had to be routed and upgraded through the structure without compromising the quality and character of the original building. 

The design worked within these confines and created new interactive spaces, informal gathering areas and formal study spaces. A new stair spatially connects the floors and is an energizing connecting sculpture for the revitalized library. The building occupants are delighted with the more interactive and flexible environment.

The law library includes a student services center, student journal suite, rare book room, faculty offices and lounge, library staff workspace, reading rooms and multiple study settings. 

The jury said, “ . . . beautiful interior renovation . . . ceilings are so clean, beautiful restoration . . .”

Project Team: The University of Chicago, and OWP/P, with Construction Cost Systems, Inc.; and Carol Naughton Associates